A lot of people stick a fake tree in a corner, dust the leaves off every week, and call it indoor gardening. However, indoor gardening has evolved into much more than that lately. While some may think plants belong strictly outdoors, there are many compelling reasons to start an indoor garden. Not only do plants remove carbon dioxide from the air, but they also filter out harmful toxins and pollutants. An indoor garden not only enhances your home’s décor but also purifies the air you breathe.

When selecting plants for indoor gardening, it’s important to choose ones that are adaptable and suited to the conditions in your home. Consider factors such as the amount of time you can dedicate to plant care, the natural light in your space, and your budget. If you’re on a tight budget, starting with seeds or cuttings is a great option. If you can spend a bit more, you might want to purchase fully grown plants. Also, decide whether you prefer plants that thrive year-round or those that are seasonal.

Herb gardens are an excellent choice for indoor gardening because they are both attractive and useful. Herbs grow quickly, so you don’t have to wait long to see results. Popular cooking herbs include chives, dill, sage, thyme, and oregano.

When starting your indoor garden, it’s important to choose plants that match your level of experience. For novice gardeners, there are plenty of hardy plants that are easy to care for and difficult to kill. Some examples include Fatsia, Cyperus, Scandens, popular succulents, Coleus, and Bromeliads.

Indoor gardening does come with its own set of rules, particularly when it comes to light. Since plants won’t get the same sunlight they would outdoors, understanding their lighting needs is crucial. Choose plants that can thrive in medium to low light, such as ferns or philodendrons, unless you plan to supplement with artificial lighting. If you buy an already grown plant, it’s likely accustomed to brighter light than your home provides, so you’ll need to "condition" it by gradually reducing its light exposure. Once inside, rotate your plants regularly to encourage even, upright growth.

Don’t forget, just because your plants are indoors doesn’t mean they don’t need water. The frequency of watering depends on the type of plant, but make sure your pots allow for proper drainage, and try to use water at room temperature. Additionally, keep an eye on the temperature in your home. While most plants can handle a temperature range of 10-15 degrees, sudden changes can be harmful.

Indoor gardening isn’t difficult—in fact, it’s quite similar to outdoor gardening. There are even some advantages, such as not having to worry about pests, wind, or frost damaging your plants.